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How to become a notary public in District of Columbia. Commission term: 5 years. Verified 2026-04-02. Data verified 2026-04-02. Source: LicenseMap (getlicensemap.com).
Notary Public
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5 years
Commission Term
before renewal
No
Education Required
no course needed
No
Exam Required
no exam needed
$2,000
Bond Required
surety bond
You must be a legal resident of District of Columbia (or maintain a place of business there), be at least 18 years old, and be able to read and write English. You cannot have a disqualifying criminal record.
Submit your application to the District of Columbia Office of the Secretary. Application fee: $75.
Obtain a $2,000 surety bond. $2,000 surety bond required. Not required if commissioned solely for DC government employment. Bond cost: $40-$60.
Purchase an official notary stamp or seal that meets District of Columbia requirements. Typical cost: $20-$40. Total estimated startup cost: $135-$175.
Once approved, you will receive your notary commission, valid for 5 years. You can then begin performing notarial acts in District of Columbia. Remote online notarization (RON) is also permitted.
Minimum Age
18 years old
Residency
Must reside in DC, or work/have a business in DC (depending on commission type: Residential, Business/Government, or Dual).
Citizenship
United States citizen or permanent legal resident
Background Check
Not required
Not sure if you need a notary license? Check whether your state requires one.
Education
Not RequiredNo education course required.
Exam
Not RequiredNo exam required.
Compare top-rated notary education providers in District of Columbia.
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Surety Bond
Required$2,000
$2,000 surety bond required. Not required if commissioned solely for DC government employment.
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Not RequiredNot required.
Seal / Stamp
RequiredOfficial notary seal/stamp required.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $75 |
Bond Premium Approximate premium for $2,000 bond | $40-$60 |
Stamp / Seal Purchased from private vendors | $20-$40 |
Total Estimated Cost Application + bond + seal + supplies | $135-$175 |
Use our licensing cost calculator to estimate your total investment including education and exam fees.
Determine commission type (Residential, Business/Government, or Dual)
Submit online application with $75 fee
Obtain $2,000 surety bond (unless government-only commission)
Purchase notary supplies (seal, journal)
Receive commission (processing takes approximately 45-60 days)
Commission Term
5 years
Renewal Process
Submit renewal application with same requirements.
Renewal Fee
$75
Regulatory Board
DC authorizes electronic notarization.
Additional Requirements
Must comply with DC e-notary requirements.
What Makes District of Columbia Unique
DC offers three commission types based on residency/employment. Government-only commissions are exempt from bond requirements.
DC offers three commission types: Residential, Business/Government, and Dual.
Government employees commissioned only for DC government work do not need a bond.
Processing takes approximately 45-60 days.
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